Octagon House Foundation

Our Mission

The Octagon House Foundation was formed in 2014 to save and restore this landmark. A nationally, state, and locally recognized historic structure, the Octagon House is an artifact representing an era that forever changed the American landscape both physically and culturally. The mission of the foundation is to restore the structure to its original appearance. In doing so, the home will be a cultural and educational destination where visitors can experience the past, use those experiences for today, and teach future generations social inclusivity, healing, and equality. As the domestic octagon style was dubbed “A Home for All”, the social and cultural landscape of the time was one of racial disparity and enslavement. As the Octagon House is reborn, it will finally become the home for all, both the enslaved people who toiled in its construction and the Thomas family. Sharing their stories and immersing ourselves in their ways of life brings significance to those without a written history and illustrates how social prejudices impact our society today. Please see photo gallery at the end of this page of events, fundraising, etc. over the years and an aerial video of the site. If you would like to become a member of the Octagon House Foundation, receive our newsletter, be notified of upcoming events or volunteer, please subscribe at the end of this page. We would love to have you!

Smyth County History teachers visit the sites of holston Mills and the octagon House

We were pleased to have Smyth County teachers and administrators visit the Octagon House and Holston Mills sites. Our mission to learn from the past, live now, and teach for the future begins with our teachers, the greatest influence a child may have. We appreciate their desire, not only to learn local history, but to pass their knowledge to future generations. Please see photographs below of Smyth County teachers and administrators visiting both sites.

Octagon House Foundation

Octagon House Foundation